New Delhi: Panic gripped passengers aboard an Air India flight from Phuket to New Delhi after the aircraft encountered severe turbulence during cruise on Tuesday, causing a brief but sudden change in altitude that left several passengers and crew members injured.
Flight AI2379, operating from Phuket, Thailand, to Delhi, landed safely at Indira Gandhi International Airport, where ambulances were seen stationed outside the terminal. Visuals from the airport showed injured passengers being assisted in wheelchairs, while others were spotted with head bandages before being taken for medical evaluation.
In an official statement, Air India confirmed the incident, saying the aircraft experienced a brief turbulence-related event during cruise.
“Flight AI2379 operating from Phuket to Delhi on August 4 experienced a brief in-flight turbulence-related event during cruise, resulting in a momentary change in altitude,” the airline said.
The airline clarified that the aircraft landed safely and all passengers and crew disembarked without further incident.
According to Air India, no serious injuries have been reported so far, though a small number of passengers and crew members with minor injuries were shifted to the airport medical facility for precautionary examination and treatment.
A passenger who spoke to ANI described the incident as terrifying, saying the turbulence struck without warning while many passengers were asleep.
“The flight had been in the air for around one and a half hours. It was early morning, and we were sleeping. Suddenly, the aircraft tilted sharply and kept shaking for nearly two to three minutes,” the passenger said.
The passenger claimed that 15–20 people sustained injuries, including a child.
“Someone’s baby got hurt. I injured my lower back, while my brother suffered injuries to his shoulder and back. We’ll know more once the medico-legal report is prepared,” the passenger added.
Air India reiterated that the safety and well-being of passengers and crew remain its highest priority, adding that it is extending all necessary assistance to those affected.
The airline also said it is fully cooperating with the relevant authorities as the incident is being investigated.